This is a perfect example of what happens when I am afraid to try something and then I do … and I become addicted!

I am now addicted to the Gelli Plate by Gelli Arts. I finally tried it while writing an article about mixed media techniques for the Fall issue of Craftideas magazine. (Shameless self promotion alert! Besides my article, the issue has three of my projects, with a fourth featured in the enewsletter.)

The Gelli Plate looks and feels like gelatin, but is a durable, reusable, easy to clean surface that is used for monoprinting. The simple version: spread a drop or two of acrylic paint on the plate. Use a brayer to spread the paint into a thin layer across the plate. Use a soft object (stamp, bubble wrap, brush, stencils, etc.) to create an imprint. Add more colors if you like. Place plain copy paper on top of the painted surface, rub gently, then “pull” off your print. Not perfect? Add more paint and put on another layer. There are NO mistakes!

About

Roberta is a writer by trade, a crafter by accident. She was a contributing writer with The Rubber Stamper Magazine since its inception and now holds the same position at Crafts 'n Things. Read more about her in the About Me column.